Trauma victims often fight silent battle

By Courtney Samsel, Centers

Published
6:12 pm CST, Tuesday, January 30, 2018

Has tragedy become entertainment in our world? CNN boasts headlines of current news and circumstances throughout the world, reality television seems to be increasing in popularity, and tabloid magazines continue to sell the pain inflicted in others’ lives. Some would argue that the news allows for growth of knowledge and understanding in order to prevent circumstances of their own, while others state that focusing on another’s drama allows them to escape their own. What most may people not realize is that a process of desensitization occurs in the midst of the escape. Some are challenged to battle chains from wounds that affect them daily. Such individuals seek consistent escape from the dungeon of trauma from their past.

Trauma comes in all shapes and forms and can best be described as an experience that causes serious emotional distress. Examples of traumatic events could include catastrophic storms such as hurricanes or tornadoes; community violence; loss of a loved one; abuse; or deployment to a war zone.

Trauma is often a silent battle fought by those who are inflicted. Survivors often feel as though something is wrong -- whether it be socially, mentally, physically, or emotionally. But their bodies are attempting to survive in the midst of a highly stressful situation.

Therapy may help a trauma survivor to walk out of the dungeon and into reality to enjoy daily living. Therapy can enable a survivor to move impulsive behaviors and thoughts into a more rational side of the nervous system in order to consider the consequences of their behavior.

There have been instances where I have observed trauma survivors maintain obsessive compulsive behaviors in an attempt to feel safe and secure -- for instance wrapping themselves tightly in their sheets each night. Once the transition occurs allowing more rational thinking, individuals are able to manage their emotions and maintain self-regulation. This means that they are able to “grab the reins” of their life and head toward goals of happiness and contentment.